A recent workplace policy at security firm, Certis, in Singapore, has sparked concern over employee privacy and trust. The company reportedly wants its employees to remain at home while on sick leave or share their live location if they are not. If employees are found to be away from home without valid reasons, disciplinary measures may follow, which could mean that they could even be terminated.
The policy came to public attention after internal WhatsApp messages circulated online. These messages indicated that employees availing sick leave would be expected to either share their live location or participate in a video call with their supervisor if they were not at home. If they failed to comply they would be formally warned or face disciplinary action.
In response to media queries, Certis has reportedly confirmed that location-related measures do exist during medical leave but also emphasised that contracts are not terminated solely for being away from home. According to the company, through this policy, it is endeavouring to ensure the responsible use of medical leave, which it also acknowledged that most employees already follow.
Experts feel that such tracking mechanisms can adversely affect employee morale and erode trust.
Expecting constant location updates or check-ins, experts feel, is aa good aa encroaching on employees’ personal boundaries, especially when they are unwell.
The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) responded to the issue by reaffirming that medical leave is a legal entitlement. It emphasised that employees must be allowed to use it to focus on their recovery and should not be discouraged from taking time off when they need it most. The Ministry also urged employers to maintain open communication and fair practices while investigating any cases of possible misuse.
The Ministry advised that not being at home during sick leave should not automatically be treated as misconduct, as there may be valid justification for the same.
The situation puts the spotlight on the growing tension between surveillance policies and employee well-being in today’s digital workplaces.